Morning sunlight spilled over the rooftops of Varethia as the royal entourage gathered in the village square. The golden banners of Lupendralis fluttered gently in the soft breeze, and the scent of pine, fresh bread, and warm memories lingered in the air.
Queen Selene embraced the village women with silent grace. King Aldric clasped hands with the elders. Lydia and Jeremiel shared hushed laughter with old friends. Peter, for once, had a quiet smile as the children hugged him goodbye.
And Anastasia—she stood surrounded.
The villagers pressed in around her with open arms, with tears, with quiet words that clung to her heart.
“Thank you,” a mother whispered.
“May the Moon guide you,” murmured an elder.
“You’ll always have a home here,” said a young boy.
Anastasia bent to embrace the ch
